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NHS staff have been praied for delivering faster cancer treatments for patients in Forth Valley - maintaining the Scottish Government Target and ahead of the national average.
Figures just released show that for the second quarter of the year, the Scottish average for people suspected of having cancer being seen within a 62 day target time fell slightly to 93.5%. However in Forth Valley the number rose from 94.3% to 95.5%.
NHS Forth Valley chairman Ian Mullen said: "Our commitment to deliver quality assured, patient-focussed cancer services means we are making a real difference to the lives of patients and their families. I'd like to pay tribute to the dedication and efforts of all the staff involved. But we can always improve and we will carry on working hard to deliver the faster care that patients deserve."
Jonathan Procter, Director of Access added: "This means patients are now being treated within the quickest time possible and just as importantly, those who are found not to have cancer are being reassured much more quickly."
Almost all diagnosis and treatment for breast, lung, colorectal, urological and blood cancers is provided locally, and NHS Forth Valley has one of the most advanced CT scanners in Scotland, which is invaluable in diagnosing and monitoring cancer. Just 15% of the many patients referred are actually found to have cancer.
For each type of cancer there are specialist nurses to provide care and support for cancer patients and local initiatives include drop-in centres in Falkirk and Stirling and a benefits advice service in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support and the three local authorities. Many cancer patients face financial uncertainty and trained advisors can help them determine what benefits they should be claiming.